Over the winter break, I got to return to Hoschton, Georgia, to enjoy one of my favorite cafes out there, Hoschton Coffee Co. Started by a small group of family friends, the coffee shop opened in 2021 with the hopes of filling a cozy void in my hometown. After visiting them almost three years later, it’s safe to say they’ve gone above and beyond.

The space is a cute white and blue building snuggled up right next to the town center. Though small, they make the best of their space with hand-crafted wooden tables alongside a cozy nook of chairs and a couch. With games of chess and checkers, it’s set up for any aspiring coffee dates. The lighting is always a warm welcome, and their consistent use of exposed wood and bronze paired with their blue and white accents makes almost every picture inside post-worthy. 5 out of 5 for the vibes.

I am most excited to talk about the food. The plethora of pastries is homemade by the manager every other day, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a better baked good anywhere in town, let alone here in Clemson. My consistent favorite, however, was the homemade apple-cinnamon cream cheese. Put that on a French toast bagel, and you’ll never settle for anything less again. The only slight dock in points just comes from the lack of other options compared to what some cafes provide. 4 out of 5 for food.

I’m a bit biased in reviewing their coffee, since this was where I largely learned most of what I know about different roasting methods and drinks. These baristas know exactly what they’re doing and exactly how to get you something you want. They play around with different textures and tastes, and their seasonal menus are always a treat with some super unique options. They won’t be to everyone’s taste, but they’ve got all the regular fixes as backups. The coffee gets a 5 out of 5.